Perhaps the name itself offers a clue. Şeyhler means “sheikhs” in Turkish. This Ankara neighborhood carries a name that speaks of history.
Şeyhler is a small neighborhood. It belongs to the municipality of Akyurt in Ankara Province. Imagine a place where community ties are strong.
In 2022, Şeyhler had a population of just 107 people.
Ankara’s history stretches back to the Bronze Age. The Hatti civilization first settled here. Later, the Hittites, Phrygians, and others made their mark. Ankara grew in importance under the Phrygians around 1000 BC. King Midas is even venerated as the founder of Ancyra in Phrygian tradition.
The city saw many rulers. Lydians, Persians, Macedonians, Galatians, and Romans all held sway. Ankara became a vital spot for transportation under the Seljuks and Ottomans. Its strategic location led to Ankara becoming the capital of the Turkish Republic on October 13, 1923.
Ankara has been called many names through the ages. The Hittites called it “Ankuwash”. During the Hellenistic and Byzantine periods, it was known as “Áγκυρα-Ankyra”. The Galatians and Romans called it “Ancyra” meaning anchor. The modern name Ankara is a slight modification of “Ancyra”.
Ankara’s cultural heritage is rich. Çatalhöyük, King Midas Tomb, and the Temple of Augustus are testaments to this.
Even though Şeyhler is a small part of Ankara today, it shares in this long history. It connects to Ankara’s past through its province. Şeyhler offers a glimpse into a quieter side of Turkish life.
While Şeyhler may not be a bustling metropolis, it is a living piece of Turkish history. Its name reminds us of the layers of culture and tradition that make up this region. Şeyhler stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of community.